7 Diet Tips to Manage Asthma and Allergies
Asthma and allergy are related. Asthma is a respiratory condition that is usually caused by allergies. Apart from breathing problems, allergies can cause many other problems. Asthma and allergies need to be managed through medicines and other treatments. This article explains some diet tips for asthma and allergies.
Identify And Eliminate Allergens
One of the diet tips for asthma and allergies is to identify the allergic food that is causing the problem. This can be found through an elimination diet. Once the food is identified, then it must be strictly avoided. There is no standard list of allergic foods as they vary from person to person.
Avoid Sulfites
Sulfites are preservatives that are commonly found in foods like wine, pickles, dried fruits, lime juice, and shrimp. Sulfites can cause allergies in some people and trigger off an asthma attack. They need to be strictly avoided.
Eat Fruits And Vegetables
The best foods to eat are fruits and vegetables. They have minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients that help strengthen immunity. This allows the body to fight allergies naturally. Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants that help in reducing inflammation, which commonly occurs due to allergies.
Studies showed that people who eat more fruits and vegetables experience fewer asthma attacks.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D consumption has been associated with reduced asthma attacks in children. Apart from sunshine, which is the natural source for Vitamin D, milk, salmon, eggs, and fortified orange juice can be consumed. Vitamin D can also be taken in the form of supplements.
Vitamin A
Studies have shown a link between low levels of Vitamin A and asthma. Vitamin A can improve lung function. Some of the good sources for Vitamin A are carrots, sweet potatoes, leafy green vegetables, and broccoli.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are ideal foods to maintain heart health. They are also anti-inflammatory and can be beneficial for those who are allergic. Inflammation is one of the common effects of allergies and Omega-3 fatty acids can help fight inflammation.
Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines are rich in Omega-3. Walnuts, Brazil nuts, cashew, and flax seeds also have high content of Omega-3 fatty acids and must be included in the diet.
Eat To Lose Weight
Those who are overweight or obese are more prone to asthma and allergic attacks. Losing weight can be very helpful for those who have asthma. Increased weight causes belly fat to press on the lungs worsening the symptoms of asthma.
A balanced diet with more whole grain, fruits, vegetables, and lean meat and less unhealthy fats is recommended. Regular exercise (aerobic exercise) is helpful in strengthening the lungs. It also helps in weight loss and improving overall fitness.
The diet tips for asthma and allergies listed in this article can be helpful in managing asthma and allergy attacks more effectively. Dietary changes are easy to make and can be beneficial for those who suffer from these conditions.